Cuban Travel : 5 Tips That Will Make Your Trip To Cuba Easy

Cuban travel experience is one of a kind. Cuba may not take the top spot for being the world’s most famous tourist destination, but it is as exciting as it sounds. Its world is completely different from its neighboring countries and offers you an admirable blend of modern and cultural. From the famous cigars to crystal-clear waters along the beach, a trip to Cuba will give you the kind of fulfillment one expects from an international trip. But, you can make your trip even better if you take certain safeguards and acquaint yourself with the Cuban world a little bit before joining it.

In case you have your heart set on exploring a distinct culture and lifestyle, then Cuba is where you should be. But, visiting any new place means you are in a world of things new and unknown. So, for a good Cuban experience, you must inform yourself of a few really important things. Read along to know more about them in this article.

Twin currencies Yes, you read it right. Cuba has 2 official currency systems. One is the Cuban Convertible Peso (CCP) and the other one being the Cuban Peso (CUP). The former is the one that will help you the most because it enables better purchases for tourists in the country and is largely accepted in establishments such as eateries and hotels. However, if you intend to use CUP, then there are not many avenues where you can expend that currency. CUP is used by locals and hence, you might not find much utility out of them except in places such as flea markets.

Cash-based economy In this world of digital payments, it is rather inconvenient to pay in cash. When you can simply pay by a touch on the phone, handing out cash notes to vendors seem like a hassle. But, Cuba does not care whether or not you find cash a hassle. You must carry a lot of it if you want to enjoy a good time here. In here, most businesses take cash and there will be only a few which will offer credit card facility. Also, if you are coming from countries such as the United States, then check whether your bank is accepted here.

Try to keep a low profile Cuba is a safe Caribbean country but that does not mean it is impeccable. Petty theft is not so uncommon and thus, an attempt to show off all the wealth you have with you can backfire. It is highly advised that you avoid poor neighborhoods and attracting unwanted attention by overdoing your presentation. Just keep a low profile and try to assimilate in society. Always keep a watch on people around you when visiting crowded places. This will save you from plenty of headaches.

A Map would be handy I am not talking about digital maps. No, no. A paper map is what you need when traveling to Cuba. I understand that the Internet is largely available in the country but what you might fail to realize until it is too late that the connectivity is not always spot on here. Also, since Cuban vacation means more walking, then a paper map would give rather detailed information about places. Moreover, it is rather a fresh experience to read paper maps and travel places. Try it! But, yes, before that, learn how to read a map before you leave for Cuba.

Don’t talk politics like you know it all Cuban politics is not as simple as you think it is. People here are very touchy about it. If you think you can make people like you or find you an intellectual by engaging in Cuban politics, then I wish you well. Whether or not you are an expert, do not try the politics card to integrate into Cuban society. They won’t like it. Things will only get more awkward if you are from the United States. Behave like a tourist and try not to cross boundaries. Mind your own business, and you will have a blast in this otherwise culturally rich and aesthetically charming country.

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Ryan serves as a senior editor and head of research and data analytics at CEOWORLD magazine. During his five-year tenure at CEOWORLD magazine, he has employed his expertise in data science across several roles. Ryan was previously responsible for data modelling and analytics, as well as secondary research, on the CEOWORLD magazine Custom Research team. Prior to that, Ryan was the ultra-high net worth (UHNW) valuations subject matter expert at CEOWORLD magazine, mentoring research teams in valuations’ techniques, and was involved in product development for ultra high net worth (UHNW) and high net worth (HNW) dossier creation, currently heading research operations in the company’s New York office. Write at ryan@ceoworld.biz

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